Laser-Cut Laminate Updates Mid-Century Modern
Posted on Mon, Jun 18, 2012 @ 07:43 AM
Blaze Red and Pewter Grey Sideboard by Lucy Turner
We’re inspired by people every day…even more so by those who help us reimagine our own products. One such person is Lucy Turner, England-based furniture and surface designer and owner of Higher Market Studio. Lucy specializes in customizing and transforming mid-century furniture with the clever use of laser-cut Formica® Laminate, and the end result is stunning. Today we’re sharing the love for Lucy’s work – and we’re thankful she took time away from the studio to respond to our questions via email.
1. How did you get started working with decorative laminates? And in particular, laser cutting it?
I have always loved Formica, the appearance, the tactileness and the quality of it. I was always drawn to the old thicker Formica. It wasn't until one day when I bought an old sideboard (about 8 years ago), I thought - how can I update this? My first thought was to cover it in Formica - bright yellow! Then, as my thoughts progressed (I had just learnt how to use a laser cutter), I decided to try laser cutting it to customise my own laminate. This was how it all started.
2. What was the first piece you created?
It was the sideboard I bought 8 years ago. Although the initial idea was to go for yellow, I decided to stick with white/flowers. The second piece I made was yellow.
Honesty Chest of Drawers by Lucy Turner
3. What do you love about decorative laminates? In particular, Formica® Brand?
Formica is the original and the best. I find it is better quality than some of the others and it seems to work best for me. It works so well on my furniture as it’s scratch/heat resistant. I use this as a selling point as people do not realise the quality of the finish it can provide … 10 times better than paint as it does not yellow or fade. The colour range is quite vast as well, so I can always create the piece I have designed.
4. The Formica® Brand had a defining moment in the 50s ... what is it about mid-century style that appeals to you?
It is not just the style of the furniture from this era that is appealing, the clean lines and shapes – it’s the quality of the furniture, made in this country! Quality British craftsmanship at its best. I just love it. Share the Love note: We love it too … Formica Group has a manufacturing plant in North Shields, UK).
Pineapple Sideboard by Lucy Turner
5. You have certain motifs that appear in your work, such as pineapples, peonies and fish. What draws you to these images?
We are all attracted to nature. Nature is a wash of shapes and colours, it will never not appeal to me. I think most people have a connection with nature and we like to have a bit of it in our homes. I combine quality, nature, colour, functionality and design for the home.
6. What has been your favorite Formica® Brand color or pattern to work with and why?
I think I have probably used ALL of the colours. At the moment I really like Energy. I like using some of the graphics like VirrVarr to give the piece another dimension alongside the plain colours and the wood. Share the Love note: VirrVarr and Energy are available in the UK, not in North America. If you like VirrVarr and you are ordering from North America, try our Geo Collection.
To learn more about Lucy and view her complete work, visit http://www.lucyturner.co. And yes, she can ship to North America!
Want to see more applications using laser-cut laminate? Check out this profile on the Bodega Wine Bar.